Freedom of Information Act 2000 Request

Policies the CPS have implemented for Prosecutors

Request

What policies has the CPS implemented that have encourage prosecutors to cherry pick cases (such as performance targets) that have led inevitably to a detrimental affect on the course of justice (over the last 10 years).

Response

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) does not encourage prosecutors to cherry pick cases (such as performance targets) that have led inevitably to a detrimental effect on the course of justice.

All charging decisions are made in accordance with the same two-stage test as set out in the Code for Crown Prosecutors:

1. Does the evidence provide a realistic prospect of conviction? and;
2. Is it in the public interest to prosecute?

Information Management Unit 020 3357 0788 IMU@cps.gov.uk